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AN ABATTOIR SURVEY OF CYSTICERCOSIS PREVALENCE IN SLAUGHTERED PIGS IN ÌSOKO NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

AUTHORS: 1Bekederemo, B .O, Okhale, O.E 1Onwumere-Idolor, O. S, and Mukoro, J. E

CONFLUENCE JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES VOL. 18 (ISSUE 3), 2024

www.confluencejournal.com.ng ISSN: 1597-5827

Department of Animal Science, Delta State University of Science & Technology, Ozoro, Delta State,
Nigeria.
Corresponding author E-mail: Onwumere-idoloros@dsust.edu.ng, Tel: 08033461840.

ABSTRACT

Cysticercosis, caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium, is a significant public health and economic concern in sub-Saharan Africa. The disease has serious implications for food safety and human health, particularly in regions where pig farming and pork consumption are prevalent. This study examines the prevalence of porcine cysticercosis in slaughtered pigs in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. The research employs secondary data from veterinary inspection records and literature on porcine cysticercosis in Nigeria to estimate prevalence rates and assess diagnostic challenges. The study reveals that traditional meat inspection methods, including tongue palpation and post-mortem examination, have limitations in detecting mild infections, suggesting that the true prevalence might be higher than reported figures. The findings highlight the need for improved diagnostic methods, better pig husbandry practices, and enhanced public health education to mitigate the risks associated with T. solium transmission. Strengthening meat inspection protocols, implementing routine serological testing, and educating pig farmers and consumers on preventive measures are highly recommended as these interventions are essential for reducing the burden of cysticercosis and preventing its transmission to humans.

Keywords: Abattoir survey, Cysticercosis prevalence, Slaughtered pig, Delta state